Pick the right panties for your shape, style and fashion choices

Gone are the days when your underwear options were limited to black or white, brief or bikini. Now it seems that there are panty options in droves, promising to do everything from tame your tummy to disappear underneath your wardrobe. And for good reason. "The wrong undergarments can ruin your look," says Amanda Bird of Sculptz Shapewear. "Ones that are too tight can create bulges or draw attention to lumps and bumps," she explains. But the right ones will give you license to wear just about anything by accentuating your figure to its best advantage. Here, the essential panty guide for all shapes, sizes and fashion needs.

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Basic Bikini

A popular choice when it comes to a basic panty, bikinis provide a moderate amount of coverage in an easy-to-wear cut. Some cotton versions, however, tend to get baggy with age, appearing lumpy underneath clothing, and riding up in all the wrong places. It's no wonder this Gap version is dubbed the Favorite Bikini ($12.50; Gap.com)––made of nylon and spandex, it keeps its shape over time, and nearly seamless trim helps it stay in place, ideal for wearing to the gym and beyond.

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High-Waist Briefs

Say goodbye to lower-belly bulge with this retro-look style. These briefs sit at your natural waistline so they don't cut into you, concealing your tummy without the heavy-duty feel of a shaper. The Parfait by Affinitas Charlotte Brief ($15; LaurenSilva.com) will instantly channel your inner Bettie Page with its chic pinup style. The high waist secretly smoothes your tummy and nips your midsection and hips without being too tight, a great choice to wear with dresses that cinch at the waist.

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Hipster Brief

WWhile many women reach for briefs because of the full coverage they provide—with a high rise and full rear you'll feel sufficiently contained––they aren't an ideal mate for low-rise pants. Instead, try a hipster brief, which sits comfortably below the belly button while still keeping your backside fully covered. Jockey's No Panty Line Promise Tactel Hip Brief ($9.50; Jockey.com) provides sufficient coverage with the brand's patented technology to ensure that you won't see any lines under your clothing. The silky fabric eliminates friction with your clothing, ensuring a flattering and comfortable fit.

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Wide-Waistband Thong

If you love string thongs for their barely-there feel but crave a little more coverage, check out the Victoria's Secret Lace-Waist Thong ($9.50–$10.50; VictoriasSecret.com). Unlike super-skimpy styles, this pair features a wide lace waistband that stays put underneath clothing (no rolling, bunching or shifting), while still providing an invisible look. Plus, they're available in seven colors and 12 fun prints, so fans of bold panty choices will have their pick.

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Boy-Short Thongs

If you want to avoid midsection bulges but don't love constricting high-waist styles, try a low-rise boy-short thong. The hip-hugging hybrid style sits low on your waist, keeping your belly free of snug bands. This cotton/spandex Hip Hugger Boy Thong from Mary Green ($16.50; MaryGreen.com) features lace trim, which cuts back even more on waistband bulge. The thong-style back makes them a smart choice to wear under body-skimming pants or dresses, and the fabric blend provides a smooth and breathable wear.

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Torso-to-Tush Shapers

Want to transform your entire torso? Try this ultimate waist-defining, belly-busting, hip-nipping garment, which guarantees a sleek look in even the most skintight sheath. The beauty of the Sculptz High-Waist Shaper Brief ($25; Silkies.com) is that it sits just below the bustline to cinch your tummy, waist and hips comfortably. When you wear these super shapers, you'll never have to worry about "muffin top," because they suck in your entire midsection. Plus, they create lift and separation in the rear, beefing up a pancake bottom.

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Invisible Boy Shorts

Every underwear drawer needs a few pairs of cute but easy-to-wear styles that you'll reach for again and again. Boy shorts are the men's boxer equivalent for women: They're comfy on everyone, no matter your figure. What's even better about Panache Atlantis Solutions Short Panty ($20; www.herroom.com) is that they're completely seamless, which means you can hide them under tight pants or a figure-skimming dress and no one will know. They're crafted from sleek microfiber and have a flat, paper-thin elastic along the waist and leg openings for a smooth look.

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Thigh Huggers

Looking to slim down your legs? This mid-thigh cut smoothes your gams, and features leg bands so they'll stay in place when you walk, sit or bend. The Rhonda Shear Pin-Up Girl Metallic Panty, ($23.90; RhondaShear.com) not only minimizes your thighs, but also contours your waist and stomach, a perfect pair for sheath dresses. A pretty lace front panel keeps them from looking utilitarian, but discreetly tightens your tummy area, while the back has a shaping seam that lifts your bum.

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